The details are here!
Robert Scoble is one of Microsoft's best-read and best-known internal bloggers - and was one of the first to publicly criticise Microsoft's decision to remain 'neutral' on HB 1515, the bill before the WA Senate that would have added sexual orientation to the state's anti-discrimination statutes.
(excerpt from Ballmer's email below)
After looking at the question from all sides, I've concluded that diversity in the workplace is such an important issue for our business that it should be included in our legislative agenda. [...]
Accordingly, Microsoft will continue to join other leading companies in supporting federal legislation that would prohibit employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation - adding sexual orientation to the existing law that already covers race, sex, national origin, religion, age and disability. Given the importance of diversity to our business, it is appropriate for the company to endorse legislation that prohibits employment discrimination on all of these grounds. Obviously, the Washington State legislative session has concluded for this year, but if legislation similar to HB 1515 is introduced in future sessions, we will support it.
Calculated move, or genuine response?